the animals of the world exist for their own reasons. they were not made for humans any more than blacks were made for whites, or women for men." … alice walker

the absurdity of it all...

"Isn't man an amazing animal? He kills wildlife by the millions in order to protect his domestic animals and their feed. Then he kills domestic animals by the billions and eats them. This in turn kills man by the millions, because eating all those animals leads to degenerative - and fatal - health conditions like heart disease, kidney disease, and cancer. So then man tortures and kills millions more animals to look for cures for these diseases. Elsewhere, millions of other human beings are being killed by hunger and malnutrition because food they could eat is being used to fatten domestic animals. Meanwhile, some people are dying of sad laughter at the absurdity of man, who kills so easily and violently, and once a year sends out cards praying for "Peace on Earth." .. Preface from Old MacDondald's Factory Farm, by C. David Coates

“the greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” …mohandas ghandi

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." ...Margaret Mead

"The assumption that animals are without rights and the illusion that our treatment of them has no moral significance is a positively outrageous example of crudity and barbarity. Universal compassion is the only guarantee of morality." ... Schopenhauer

i was born in the 50s, grew up in St. Kilda and 'became' political during the so-called 'second wave' of the womyn's movement (womyn's liberation we called the movement then). it was a wonderful time to be alive - we fought hard for equality and justice (we also partied hard!!!) - unfortunately we seem to still be fighting the same battles this far down the track!! i 'went' vegetarian in the 70's on moral (there really are no other) grounds and finally stopped believing the 'dairy' and 'egg' industries' lies, opting for a vegan lifestyle... i have a fervent belief in womyn's and animal liberation... oh, i also believe in the decriminalisation of marijuana (for want of a better legal term) - we should all be allowed to grow a few plants in the backyard - the world would be a much better place for it!! ... you can read more on my blog hertsory - ponderings, passions and politics .. http//wizewomon.blogspot.com

Dear Sharon:On the occasion of your oncoming birthday, let me wish you many happy returns of the day! I am doing so a bit in advance, which I hope you do not mind -- it is just not to miss this very important day of yours (I am not always online). All the very best,--Sylvie